Issue 26: New Dawn

When The Dark Knight came out a few years ago, a scene I remember is when Harvey Dent is talking about how “the night is darkest just before the dawn. And I promise you, the dawn is coming.”

While things don’t exactly turn out how he wanted them to, I feel we are working through a darkness that can show us a beautiful new day. More and more, I’m speaking with people doing extraordinary things in their communities.?

This week, I want to share some of those conversations and ideas that push us into the dawn a little faster.?

Generosity in Action

In the latest episode of Untapped Philanthropy, we explore data sharing with Jesse Bourns , co-founder of DARO. With a background in the nonprofit sector and a passion for technology, Jesse is dedicated to transforming how nonprofits handle data for social good.

Jesse's journey from a cattle ranch in Western Canada to co-founding DARO highlights his diverse experience. He criticizes the nonprofit sector's flawed approach to data problems, which often involves creating singular platforms. Instead, Jesse advocates for allowing multiple entities to solve various components of a problem without requiring uniformity.

A prime example of this philosophy is the Giving Tuesday Data Commons, where over a hundred data providers share information, offering insights into giving trends without forcing a single system. Another successful project gathered data on homelessness in a small city, meeting the needs of diverse stakeholders.

Jesse emphasizes that real innovation lies in the social engineering that enables effective data sharing, not just in technology. He envisions a future where data sharing is the norm, supported by robust infrastructures and a community of practice.

Tune in as Jesse shares his vision for a collaborative, data-driven nonprofit sector, offering insights and examples of how to turn data into a powerful tool for change. What a fun episode and myself and Kerrin Mitchell Johnson have had some entertaining interviews lately that I can’t wait to share!

Tips & Tricks

If you didn’t see my post about the fantastic article that Sheleia Phillips, MPH, CHES , wrote for us about grants, I’m going to share a snippet of this resource-rich dive into what the world of grant proposals really looks like. Based on many of the questions I see in Facebook groups, here’s a key section relating to how to find grants in the first place.

Defining Your Search

Now, it’s time to find the right funding partners and grant opportunities for your nonprofit.

That means lots (and lots) of meticulous research to identify potential funding opportunities—specifically, opportunities that align with your project’s goals, your organizational values, and your operational needs. Here’s my step-by-step strategy:

Identify Your Funding Needs: Begin by clearly outlining your organization’s objectives and financial requirements to determine the grants that align with your goals. Consider how each grant can enhance your mission beyond just financial support. This broader view can help you utilize grant funding as a catalyst for meaningful change.

Thorough Research: Delve into various grant databases, government portals, and foundation directories to identify funding sources that align with your nonprofit’s key focus areas. Comprehensive research is essential for pinpointing opportunities that resonate with your organization’s fundamental needs.

Nurture Relationships: Organizations can thrive and progress toward sustainability by nurturing relationships with funders. Prioritize authenticity and mutual respect in building these connections. Establish meaningful relationships through activities like funder briefings, networking events, informational sessions, and personalized outreach efforts.

Monitor Deadlines: Develop a calendar to keep track of grant deadlines and submission criteria to ensure you seize all potential funding avenues. This tool can also help you monitor interactions with your funding partners effectively.

Following these tips can increase your chances of finding the best grants to support your organization’s impactful work.

Data Dive

Something that I’m thrilled about is the meaningful intersection of data and practical application combined with visually exciting creative design. We’ve been able to practice this internally with resources like our recurring giving report, but I MUST encourage you to look at this new resource from RKD Group and GivingTuesday that is one of the most stunning visualizations of report data that I’ve seen.?

Many kudos to Woodrow Rosenbaum , Justin McCord , and the countless others I know put this into practice. This is where I also want to see the Fundraising Effectiveness Project go!?

Community Spotlight

On Monday we had an Ambassadors meeting for the Fundraising Effectiveness Project. These are going to be monthly gatherings of folks interested in the initiative and I was blown away by how many news faces I saw, including Caitlin Wion and Holly Hull Miori, PhD, CFRE .?

But it is only the beginning of a new shift toward community-driven development and collaboration. Not only will the newest report from FEP be coming out soon, but we’ll also announce a new data provider joining the initiative (I'm just buttering you up here, folks).?

Beyond that, we have plans for:

• A new governance structure to be adopted after two years of preparation
• New leadership and committees for people to make meaningful contributions
• New visual design, in partnership with Taylor Shanklin’s team at Creative Shizzle
• New approaches to reporting, community learning, and integration into existing educational work all the participants in the initiative

This is a prime time to show your interest by filling out this form. This will serve as our source of information for people who want to roll their sleeves up and start charting out the future of data analysis and actionable research in our sector.?

For those joining the committees, we’re also planning a special gathering in September. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly with any questions, we’re getting our grounding after a wild few months but I am thrilled about the direction we’re heading.?

Upcoming Events

How Can Data Turn Dreams Into Reality?

July 22 2024, 2024 | 3:00 PM ET

Dream Big Summit is coming the week of July 22, kicking off with a special episode of Generosity Experience Live with Dana Snyder and Kirah Smith. This is going to be one of the most fun virtual educational learning experiences we’ve put together, so get your spot today!

RSVP

Dream Big Summit

July 23 - 26, 2024 | 3:00 PM ET

Dream Big Summit will feature four days of sessions to help you master the magic of generosity. Transform your team and inspire your community. Register today and get a chance to win prizes and network with fellow nonprofit leaders.

RSVP

Giving Black Conference

August 1, 2024 | 9:30 AM ET

Join us at The Giving Black Conference 2024 as we honor Black Philanthropy Month and Emancipation Day. This inspiring conference brings together diverse change makers and culture shifters. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired! Thrilled to be working with Mide Akerewusi, B.Sc., M.Sc. (Econ), CSR-P, CDEP. on this one.

Register

Brandfluence 2024

August 21, 2024 | 12:00 PM ET

Join us for the first of its kind one-day summit designed exclusively for nonprofits and social impact businesses. Empower your brand to raise more money and drive more meaningful change in your communities. Thrilled to be working with Taylor Shanklin on this one.

Register

Monthly Giving Summit

September 5-6, 2024? 1:00 PM ET

Join Dana Snyder as she puts on THE virtual event experience dedicated to helping nonprofits build subscriptions for good. Thrilled to be working with Dana Snyder for this one.

Register

Final Thoughts

I do believe a new dawn is possible for our sector, one that empowers every individual with the insight and connection and trust to make decisions that not only make them feel good but make a difference in the world.

Maybe its naive, but I always think back to the world that I hope to see for myself and future generations. And we are very much not where we should be, but I truly believe that nonprofits can play a critical role in guiding the light that we all can ultimately bask in someday.?

Till next week.?

Puzzle of the Week